Gravel tire design involves constant trade-offs between grip, rolling resistance, and durability—add too much tread and you're fighting the tire on pavement, go too slick and loose surfaces become sketchy. The Ritchey Alpine JB WCS Gravel Tire takes a different approach by using a file-tread center strip flanked by aggressive side knobs, which lets the tire roll efficiently on hardpack and pavement while still hooking up when you lean into loose corners or encounter unexpected mud. The tan sidewall construction pairs the performance compound with a classic aesthetic that complements steel and titanium frames particularly well.

The casing uses Ritchey's Stronghold technology, which adds puncture protection without the weight penalty of heavier-duty alternatives. At 700x40mm, the tire fits the sweet spot for mixed-surface riding where you're covering fire roads, gravel, and occasional singletrack without needing full mountain bike rubber. The 120 TPI casing provides supple ride quality that conforms to surface irregularities rather than bouncing over them, which translates to better traction and reduced fatigue on longer rides.

Tubeless compatibility means you can run lower pressures for improved grip and comfort without worrying about pinch flats. The tan sidewall isn't just cosmetic—it uses a different rubber compound than the black tread area, which some riders find provides slightly better sidewall flex characteristics. If you're building up a gravel bike for events that mix everything from chunky jeep roads to smooth tarmac transitions, this tread pattern handles the variety without forcing you to choose between speed and security.... Read More